Staining of the teeth happens naturally as we age. However, it is still one of the most common reasons why people are self-conscious about their teeth. No one wants to show off teeth that are yellowed. There are various reasons why teeth can become stained over the years, and there are some treatment options available to help. Read on to learn about the causes of tooth stains and what you can do about them.
What Is the Cause of Yellow Teeth?
Tooth discoloration can occur for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common culprits.
- Diet: Food and beverages that are high in tannins, like red wine, coffee, and berries, are likely to cause staining. These substances get into the enamels of the teeth, causing staining.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: If you aren’t brushing and flossing regularly, you are more likely to develop yellow teeth. Be sure that you are brushing twice and flossing every day. Mouthwash is also a great step for extra freshness. Continue to see your dentist for regular cleaning.
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the most common causes of yellow teeth, and these stains can be very challenging to remove. By giving up smoking and maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine, you can prevent this.
- Illness: Some medical conditions and medication can result in tooth discoloration. This is something that you may want to discuss with your dentist and doctor.
How Can Yellow Teeth Be Treated?
The good news is that discoloration can sometimes be reversible depending on the cause. By seeing your dentist for professional teeth whitening, many years of stains can be lifted in just one visit. First, a highly concentrated bleaching gel is placed on your teeth. This is stronger than any whitening treatment you can find over the counter. Next, your dentist will use a UV light to activate the bleaching gel. This will allow it to break down the stain particles on and below the surface of your enamel. You will see a dramatic difference in less than an hour. Professional take-home whitening kits are also available for those who would rather whiten their smiles in the comfort of their own home.
Yellow teeth are common, but you don’t need to settle for them. By taking precautions and considering your teeth whitening options, you can show off a bright, white smile!
About the Practice
At Main Line Dental Group, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Wayne community. With their combined experience and expertise patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (610) 971-0717.